15 Genuine Ways To Ask Someone To Be Your Valentine

Snap a photo together during your next hangout and let the moment unfold naturally. The key is capturing something genuine, not staged. Print it as a Polaroid or regular photo, then flip it over and write romantic messages on the back before handing it to them.

This works because it creates an instant keepsake they'll want to hold onto. The photo becomes proof of a real moment between you two, not just another Valentine's gimmick. Plus, watching their face as they turn it over and read your question gives you an authentic reaction you'll both remember. 

Fill a small jar with notes about specific things you appreciate about them. Write down inside jokes, favorite memories, or moments when they made you smile. Tuck "Be My Valentine?" as the final note at the bottom of the jar.

The beauty of this approach is that it shows you've been paying attention to the little things. Each note proves you see them as more than just a crush. When they reach that last slip of paper with your question, they'll already be feeling special and valued.

Record yourself playing guitar, singing a song, or simply talking about what makes them special to you. Keep it short and genuine. End the video with your Valentine question, then send it or show it to them in person.

This method lets your personality shine through in a way that text messages can't capture. Even if you're nervous on camera, that vulnerability makes the moment more real and touching. Planning to ask them over coffee with that video reveal? Our coffee date outfit ideas will help you look put-together without trying too hard.

Set your lock screen to a message asking them to be your Valentine. The next time you're together and naturally pull out your phone, let them catch a glimpse of the screen. This creates an easy conversation starter that feels less intimidating than a formal ask.

The casual nature of this approach takes pressure off both of you. They see your question without you having to make a big announcement, which can actually make the moment feel more intimate. It's perfect for relationships that are still finding their rhythm.

Plan small daily surprises leading up to Valentine's Day. Leave a note on their car, bring their favorite coffee, small Valentine's Gifts or text them a song that reminds you of them. On the final day, include your Valentine question with the last surprise.

This extended approach builds anticipation and shows consistent effort over time. Each small gesture reinforces that you're thinking about them, not just scrambling for a last-minute Valentine. If you're planning a DIY Valentine gift or memory jar, check out our gift ideas under $50 for budget-friendly options that feel personal and thoughtful.

Make something with your hands that reflects their interests. A wooden photo frame, a scented candle in their favorite scent, or even a painted flowerpot all work beautifully. Attach a heartfelt card with your Valentine question to the gift.

Handmade gifts carry weight because they require your time and attention. The imperfections make it more personal than anything store-bought could be. When you pair that effort with a sincere card asking them to be your Valentine, it creates a complete moment they'll want to treasure.

Create a playlist that tells your story together through music. Include songs from places you've been, inside jokes, or tracks that capture how you feel about them. Name the playlist something like "Be My Valentine?" or include the question in the playlist description.

Music has a way of expressing what words sometimes can't. Each song becomes a conversation about your connection, building up to that final question. If it still hasn't happened yet, our collection of Valentine's Day trivia questions will keep the conversation flowing and create memorable moments together.

Pick up a teddy bear or plush toy that matches something they love. Attach a small note to it that says "Be My Valentine?" and leave it somewhere they'll find it. Their desk at work, their car seat, or even their doorstep all make great spots.

Stuffed animals feel nostalgic and sweet without being too serious. The playful nature takes the pressure off while still showing you care enough to plan something special. They get a cute gift and a Valentine question all in one moment.

Buy their favorite flowers or pick something meaningful from a local shop. Skip the generic red roses unless those actually matter to them. Attach a handwritten note asking them to be your Valentine.

Flowers never go out of style because they brighten someone's day instantly. The key is choosing blooms that show you know their taste rather than grabbing whatever looks pretty. Your note transforms a simple bouquet into a genuine Valentine invitation.

Take them to a restaurant you've both wanted to try or return to a place that holds memories for you two. Wait until you're relaxed and enjoying the meal, then ask them to be your Valentine. You can write it on a napkin, say it directly, or even coordinate with the server to bring a dessert with the question written in chocolate.

The restaurant setting gives you a built-in romantic atmosphere without requiring elaborate planning. Sharing a meal creates natural conversation flow that makes asking the question feel less staged. The environment does half the work for you.

Craft a text that matches your sense of humor together. Maybe it's a meme you've been saving, a silly photo of yourself holding a sign, or a joke that only makes sense to the two of you. End it with "So... be my Valentine?"

Text messages work perfectly for relationships built on humor and constant communication. The casual format lets you be yourself without the weight of a face-to-face ask. They can read it, smile, and respond when they're ready.

Make homemade fortune cookies and slip custom messages inside. Include several sweet notes leading up to the final cookie that asks "Be My Valentine?" Bring them over for a casual hangout and suggest trying your baking experiment together.

The interactive element makes this approach fun rather than nerve-wracking. You both get to crack open cookies and read messages, building up the suspense naturally. Even if the cookies turn out less than perfect, the effort and creativity shine through.

Plan an evening outdoors under the stars. Bring blankets, snacks, and maybe a portable speaker with soft music. When you're both relaxed and looking up at the sky, ask them to be your Valentine. The peaceful setting makes the moment feel intimate and special.

Nature strips away distractions and creates space for genuine connection. The stars above remind you both that some moments are worth slowing down for. This approach works beautifully for couples who prefer meaningful experiences over material gestures.

Put together a small box with their favorite chocolate or candy. Tuck a tiny note inside that says "Life is sweeter with you. Be my Valentine?" The combination of their favorite treat and a heartfelt message creates a complete moment.

Gift boxes feel personal because you're curating something specifically for them. The chocolate adds a classic Valentine touch while your note makes it unique to your relationship. They get to enjoy the treat while holding physical proof of your feelings.